Herbs Guide

Brier Hip

Family Name: Rosaceae

Botanical Name(s): Rosa canina

Popular Name(s): Brier Rose, Dogberry, Dog Rose, Eglantine Gall, Hip Fruit, Hogseed, Sweet Brier, Wild Brier, Witches' Brier

Parts Used: Fruit

Habitat: Brier hip is native to Europe, northwest Africa and western Asia.

Description: Brier hip is a deciduous shrub growing to a height of 1-5 m. Its numerous stems are covered with sharp spines and prickles. The leaves are odd- pinnate, with 5-7 leaflets which are opposite, ovate, acute and hairy beneath. The flowers are usually pale pink, with 5 petals and have a diameter of 4-6 cm. Its oblong, scarlet to orange-red fruit contains many one-seeded achenes.

Uses: Brier hip has astringent, carminative and diuretic properties. It is recommended for kidney or bladder inflammation and is used in stomach disorders. A decoction of achenes is used as a beverage tea.